Fun festivals in northern Indiana

By Kathy Woods

Summer vacation may be over, but the fun doesn't
have to be. The warm September weekends are perfect for a day trip
to one of northern Indiana's fall festivals. There's something for
everyone to enjoy, and all are located just over an hour's drive
from the city.

Follow the most famous brick road in movie history to
Calumet and Broadway in downtown Chesterton. Race in the Emerald
City Hustle or celebrate Dorothy's birthday (girls can even get
their hair braided like Dorothy). Enter the Look-Alike Contest or
the Wicked Witch Cackling Contest, and by all means, don't miss The
Horse of a Different Color Parade on Saturday morning. Hours vary;
check website for a complete schedule of events and times. General
admission is free, but some events require pre-registration and a
small fee.

Step back into another era as you mingle with historically
clad re-enactors. Dip candles or make a tin punch design; sample
fry bread, kettle corn, and beans with ham; take a wagon ride and
top the afternoon off with a cup of cold root beer. Admission is $2
for adults and $1 for kids under 12 and seniors. Hours are 10
a.m.-5 p.m. both days. The festival takes place at Creek Ridge
County Park, 7943 W. 400 North, Michigan City (2 miles east of U.S.
421).

Everybody loves a scarecrow, especially the folks in
Wanatah. They want you to know that ™whether you are 3 or 93,
you're sure to find lots to enjoy.∫ The festival features rides for
children, a parade, fun runs, music and variety acts, and scarecrow
sculpting. Check their website for a complete list of events and
times. Admission is free and everything takes place in downtown
Wanatah at the junction of U.S. 30 and U.S. 421.

Westville Pumpkin Festival
Sept. 28-30, Westville (59 miles)

Whether you like to stew them, bake them, paint them or
carve them, make your way to Westville for all things pumpkin. A
pumpkin festival parade kicks off the fun, followed by pie-eating
contests, bingo, tractor pulls, music and an auto show. There will
be plenty of pumpkin treats and other goodies for purchase.
The festival takes place at Prairie Meadow Park at the north
junction of U.S. 421 and U.S. 6. Admission is free. Hours are 4-8
p.m. Friday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday; 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday.
Currently there is no website available.